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Laura and Chay return with a special Christmas Day episode of Allotment Diaries. This time, the conversation is less about digging and growing and more about festive traditions, Christmas Day rituals, and—of course—some truly questionable Christmas cracker jokes. On behalf of everyone at the Allotment Diaries Podcast, we’d like to wish all our listeners, past and present, a very Merry Christmas. Thank you to everyone who continues to support us and tune in as we share regular episodes about allotments, gardening, growing, and the everyday joys of home life. Perfect listening for a cosy Christmas Day walk, a post-dinner cuppa, or a quiet moment away from the chaos. Music by Ivor Game; http://www.ivorgame.com Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

After a month off — thanks to both Laura and Chay being knocked out by flu, general illness, and the fact that December can feel like a quieter time on the allotment — they’re back to chat all things plot life. While winter is often seen as a slow month, there’s still plenty to be getting on with. Laura shares what she’s been up to on her plot over December, from winter jobs to keeping things ticking along. Chay, on the other hand, admits to not getting up to much on the plot itself, with his main focus turning to planning and preparation — including replacing his polytunnel after four years of hard use. Laura also reveals which seeds she’s already purchased and what she’s planning to sow in the coming months, proving that even in the depths of winter, the growing season is never far from our minds. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay chat with Claire, an allotmenteer from Portchester in Hampshire, known online as Harvest and Home UK. Claire’s allotment journey began just four years ago when she and her husband, Trev, decided on a whim to apply for a plot—despite having no prior gardening experience. Like so many who discover the world of allotments, they quickly became hooked. Since then, their passion has continued to grow. They’ve taken on additional plots, started keeping chickens, and embraced a slower, more hands-on way of living. Claire shares how the allotment has shaped her life, from learning to grow her own food to preserving produce in creative ways—like her popular homemade chilli jam. We also talk about her recent move into vlogging on YouTube, and how documenting her journey has opened up a welcoming community of like-minded growers. This episode offers a warm and inspiring insight into how an allotment can unexpectedly transform your day-to-day life, your wellbeing, and your sense of purpose—often in a very short time. You can find out more about Claire on Instagram at @harvestandhomeuk, and you can follow her journey over on YouTube under Harvest and Home UK. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Chay and Laura catch up on what they have been harvesting and what’s been happening on their allotments while juggling the chaos of their children’s birthday parties. Chay shares an amusing story about an unexpected visitor to his plot — an escaped chicken from a neighbouring allotment — and explains how he handled the situation. The pair also discuss their upcoming plans as they prepare for the winter months, with a few surprising projects on the horizon. They delve into a lively debate about the benefits of caring for your tools during the colder season. While it’s not everyone’s favourite task, Chay makes a strong case for why tool maintenance might be one of the most underrated aspects of allotment life. To round off the episode, they’re delighted to feature music from listener Ivor Game, whose beautiful melody perfectly complements the spirit of the show. If you’d like to find out more, visit our website at: http://www.ivorgame.com Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Chay and Laura sit down with Vicky and Karin, the brilliant duo behind The Plot Thickens podcast. As fellow podcasters, they share a deep appreciation for the passion, dedication, and courage it takes to create meaningful content purely for the love of it and for the benefit of listeners. Vicky and Karin open up about how they first met, what inspired them to start their podcast, and the journey they’ve been on since – from the highs and lows to the lessons learned along the way. They also give us a behind-the-scenes look at their most recent season on their plots and a sneak peek into what plans they have next year.  Beyond podcasting, Vicky and Karin are now channelling their energy into an exciting new venture: Soil Squad. Founded in 2024 in St Albans, Soil Squad is a UK-based Community Interest Company (CIC) with a mission to turn food waste into nutrient-rich compost, promote regenerative farming, and educate communities about the importance of healthy soil. Through their Community Composting Hub at Sandridge Road Allotments, they provide composting services, run sustainability workshops, and deliver educational programmes to schools and local businesses. This is an inspiring conversation about community, sustainability, and the power of sharing stories – both through podcasts and hands-on action. You can find out more about Soil Squad via their website: https://soilsquad.uk/ Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay chat all about growing, harvesting, and cooking straight from the plot. They share stories of the very first things they ever grew, the crops that make it onto their must-grow list every year, and whether they plan their planting with cooking in mind or simply let the harvest inspire what ends up on the plate. They also dive into the tricky question of knowing when something is ready to harvest, swap go-to seasonal recipes, and talk about their favourite plot-to-plate meals – as well as a few kitchen disasters they’d never repeat. Along the way, Laura and Chay reflect on the joy of sharing produce with family, neighbours, and fellow plot-holders, and the surprising ways swapping vegetables can lead to new recipes and traditions. The conversation naturally turns to community and family: cooking with kids, discovering new flavours from other gardeners, and how growing your own food can completely change the way you shop, cook, and eat. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this 70th episode, Laura and Chay reunite to swap updates from their plots as well as what they have been up to. While activity on the allotment has been a little quieter, there’s still plenty to chat about—from everyday challenges to the latest quirky plant science. Laura dives into the fascinating world of “listening to your plants” with an audio wave machine, and the pair explore a recent study suggesting that speaking kindly to your plants could actually boost their growth and health. Could compliments really mean better flowers, fruit, and veg? Together, they discuss the possibilities, the science, and whether any of it is practical for everyday allotmenteers. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Chay and Laura are joined by Guy Herzmark, the Northern Regional Representative for the National Allotment Society (NAS). to talk all things National Allotment Week — running from 11th to 17th August 2025. This year’s theme, Allotment and Wellbeing, puts a special spotlight on mental health and exploring the many ways allotments can boost our mood, improve our physical health, and connect us with nature and community. Guy shares the purpose of the week, along with practical ideas for how anyone can get involved — whether you have a plot or simply want to support the cause. Listeners are treated to a fascinating bite-sized history lesson as Guy takes us back to the Anglo-Saxon era, tracing the origins and evolution of allotments in the UK. We also address recent media reports suggesting allotment sites could be under threat from local authority development. Guy discusses the reality of these concerns, what can be done to protect these cherished spaces, and how the National Allotment Society advocates for plot holders when sites are at risk — offering a reassuring message for all allotment lovers. You can find out more from their website: https://thenas.org.uk/ Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay catch up on everything happening on their allotment plots during the busy month of July. They dive into what they've been harvesting recently, the various tasks they've been tackling, and how they're managing their plots during a particularly dry spell. With a potential hosepipe ban looming due to the lack of rain, they offer practical tips on water conservation and how to prepare for restrictions. At the point of this recording (July 2025), hosepipe bans are in effect across parts of Yorkshire, Kent, Sussex, Oxfordshire, Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, and Wales.  Laura also takes a moment to speak candidly about her recent absence from social media, sharing a personal and heartfelt explanation. This episode blends practical gardening advice with real-life reflections, offering both inspiration and support to fellow growers. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay reconnect at the RHS Hampton Court Flower Show, taking listeners along for a walk-and-talk through the event. As they explore the showgrounds, they share their impressions and offer a thoughtful comparison to their recent experience at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Despite the challenging conditions — including high temperatures, crowds, and a makeshift recording setup — their conversation captures the vibrant energy of the day. The episode also features a light-hearted A to Z flower-naming game. While they successfully covered most of the alphabet, a few tricky letters like U, Q, and Z proved elusive. Listeners are encouraged to get in touch via direct message if they can help complete the list. In addition to the flower shows, Laura and Chay provide a seasonal update from their personal plots, discussing recent developments, challenges, and highlights from their growing journeys. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by Guy Herzmark, the Northern Regional Representative for the National Allotment Society (NAS). With over 25 years of experience as an allotmenteer in Newcastle Upon Tyne and many years of service as a site chair, Guy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for allotment gardening. He shares insights into the work of the NAS, the UK's leading organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting allotments. Representing over 125,000 members, the NAS works closely with governments, landlords, and developers to establish, manage, and preserve allotment spaces. Guy discusses how people can become members, the range of support NAS offers—including advice, legal resources, and insurance—and the key challenges currently facing the organisation. He also gives listeners a glimpse into life on his own plot, sharing some of the recent hurdles his site has encountered and highlighting his favourite things to grow.  Meanwhile, Laura and Chay reflect on their own gardening experiences during the recent heatwave, admitting that watering has been their main task lately due to the unusually high temperatures. You can find out more from their website: https://thenas.org.uk/ Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by the talented James Smith, an accomplished garden designer at Landscape Services. James is a former RHS medalist and was a finalist for the prestigious Young Designer of the Year award. With years of experience designing stunning gardens and landscapes across Hampshire and Dorset, James brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the conversation. James shares his journey into the world of landscape design—what first inspired him, how he developed his craft, and what drives his ambitions today. Prior to the interview, Laura and Chay sent James the designs of their own allotment plots, and during the episode, he offers honest and thoughtful feedback—highlighting what he loves, suggesting areas for improvement, and giving practical tips to consider. The chat also touches on James's own growing season, how his new greenhouse has transformed his gardening experience, and what exciting plans he has on the horizon. Whether you're a budding gardener or a design enthusiast, this episode is full of inspiration and insight into the creative world of garden design. You can follow James journey on instagram HERE Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this heartwarming episode, Laura and Chay sit down with Holly, a midwife and passionate allomenteer from St Albans, to talk about how she discovered solace and mental clarity through her allotment plot. Holly began her gardening journey in 2020, just before the pandemic hit, and shares how her small plot became a vital sanctuary amidst the pressures of frontline midwifery during unprecedented times. She opens up about expanding to a larger plot and managing the demands of her profession, and finding joy through choir singing, gym sessions, and digging in the dirt.  To follow Hollys Journey, you can follow her on instagram here: @agardeningmidwife  Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this uplifting episode, Laura and Chay chat with Leanne, a passionate allotment gardener who has taken on three plots since 2021. Leanne shares the highs and lows of her gardening journey, the lessons she’s learned, and how growing her own produce has become a vital part of her daily life. The conversation also highlights Leanne’s recent leap into the spotlight with her garden design, "Following in My Footsteps," which she showcased at the BBC Gardeners' World Beautiful Borders exhibit. She discusses the inspiration behind the design and what it was like to bring her vision to life on a national stage. Balancing her gardening passion with a full-time teaching job, motherhood, and caring for her dog Oscar (who makes a charming cameo on the show!), Leanne’s story is one of courage, creativity, and growth.  This episode is perfect for anyone looking for motivation to pursue their passions—whether you're an experienced gardener or just starting out. You can follow Leanne on Instagram here. Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.

In this episode, Laura and Chay are joined by Mark, founder of Buzz Into Beekeeping, who shares his experience transitioning from a beekeeping enthusiast to launching a small business. Mark outlines how his interest in pollinators led to the development of the Buzz Box Starter Pack—a compact, beginner-friendly kit designed with urban and small-space beekeepers in mind.  The discussion explores the practical realities of starting a beekeeping business, including logistical and ecological considerations, and highlights the important role bees play in local ecosystems. The episode also provides guidance for allotment holders interested in supporting pollinator health and addresses common myths surrounding bees.  Additionally, Laura and Chay give an update on their own gardening projects and introduce their next guest. Click the link to the 'buzz into beekeeping' website: https://www.buzzintobeekeeping.co.uk/ Support the show If you have any questions you would like to ask us or would like to collaborate with us, then please contact us on: [email protected]. You can also follow our social media accounts: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter or YouTube. Allotment Diaries Podcast is a podcast that examines what has worked well and what hasn't worked so well when it comes to having an allotment plot. It seeks to give an honest insight into what owning an allotment plot is actually about.